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to rest on one's laurels
01
to become satisfied with one's past achievements and to stop making efforts to improve or progress
![to [rest|sit] on {one's} laurels definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/40879/original/?type=jpeg "to [rest|sit] on {one's} laurels definition and meaning")
Disapproving
Idiom
The origin of the phrase "rest on one's laurels" comes from ancient Greece, where laurel wreaths were awarded to victorious athletes and military commanders as a symbol of honor and achievement. The laurel wreath was worn on the head and was a sign of victory and distinction. This phrase is typically used as a warning to someone who has achieved success and is in danger of becoming complacent.
Examples
After winning the award, she refused to rest on her laurels.
